NZ Criterium Championships returning to Invercargill in 2026
“It’s also an incredible opportunity for many of our junior riders to mix it with some of New Zealand’s top cyclists, including Olympians.”
Get each Southland Tribune edition sent to your email inbox.
Cycling Southland has once again secured the hosting rights for the 2026 New Zealand Criterium Championships, following the success of this year’s event in Invercargill.
The 2026 Championships will take place on Saturday, January 17, bringing the country’s top cyclists — including Olympians and rising junior stars — back to the streets of Invercargill.
It will add to another busy year for cycling in Southland with Invercargill also securing the New Zealand Track Cycling Championships for a second straight year.
Cycling Southland president Julian Ineson said the organisation was delighted to bring the event back to Southland.
“We are thrilled to again be hosting the Criterium Champs, an event where the public can enjoy the thrills of fast-paced racing around the streets of Invercargill — up close and personal.
“It’s also an incredible opportunity for many of our junior riders to mix it with some of New Zealand’s top cyclists, including Olympians.”
The 2025 Championships was supported by ILT, local businesses, the team of volunteers, and the Southland public.
These were all key factors in securing hosting rights for a second year.
Running alongside the Criterium Championships will be New Zealand’s longest running road classic, the Custom Canvas Watson Gore to Invercargill Classic, and track racing as part of the ILT New Year Carnival.